Effects of a Twelve-Week Program of Lumbar-Stabilization Exercises on Multifidus Muscles, Isokinetic Peak Torque and Pain for Women with Chronic Low Back Pain

Objective: This study aim was to evaluate the effects of the lumbar stabilization exercises on cross-sectional area (CSA) of the multifidus muscle, trunk muscles’ isokinetic peak torque, pain and disability in women with chronic low back pain (cLBP). Methods: The experimental group (EG; n=55) was enrolled in a 12-week lumbar stabilization exercises program. Control group (CG; n=51) did not undertake exercises. Before starting the exercise program, after completing it and 1 and 2 months after the intervention the following tests were carried out: isokinetic peak torque at an angular velocity of 60 deg/s was measured using a isokinetic dynamometer; measurement of the CSA of the multifidus muscle was performed using a ultrasound system, and patients were assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), as well as visual analogue pain (VAS) rating scales. Results: After intervention, isokinetic peak torque (41.25% extension and 21.53% flexion) and multifidus muscle CSA (right side: 37.41 ± 0.7%; left side: 37.53 ± 0.7%) increased, VAS (44.00%) and ODI (48.74%) decreased. Conclusion: After 12-week lumbar stabilization exercises program, multifidus muscle CSA and trunk muscles peak torque increased, disability and cLBP decreased, and these changes lasted for 2 months.